In addition to presenting the most exciting and innovative research in palliative care in oncology, a goal of the Palliative Care in Oncology Symposium is to bring together researchers in this field. As the study of palliative care in oncology is a relatively new investigative area, it is essential for researchers to network with others in the field to foster novel programs and collaborations. Excitingly, interest in this field is growing tremendously and a large number of trainees and junior faculty are embarking on careers in palliative care in oncology. As this field is quite new and there are few established researchers, many of these trainees and junior faculty have been unable to find mentorship and guidance at their own institutions. Thus, one of the goals of this year's Palliative Care in Oncology Symposium is to provide the essential guidance junior investigators in this field need to help support their research. To meet this goal, we have instituted an innovative event this year, Expert Office Hours, which pairs Symposium attendees with a senior researcher in palliative care in oncology.

Ten multidisciplinary senior researchers have agreed to participate in these Expert Office Hours to provide onsite mentoring during the Symposium. Drs. Jeannine Brant and Judith Paice are both PhD nurse–researchers with expertise in pain and symptom management. Drs. Eduardo Bruera and Charles Loprinzi have an extensive background in developing interventions for pain and symptom management. Dr. Kathleen Foley brings a unique perspective as a pain clinician and researcher, but also as a leader in international palliative care. Drs. Ralph Hauke and Daniel Hinshaw both lead palliative care services and have conducted extensive research in patients with cancer. Dr. Joshua Jones is a radiation oncologist studying the role of radiation therapy in palliative care. Dr. Jamie Von Roenn is a palliative care clinician, researcher, and educator who currently serves as the Senior Director of the Education, Science, and Professional Development Department at ASCO. We are thrilled to have such an experienced and multidisciplinary group of senior researchers participate in this program.

Expert Office Hours will take place on Saturday, October 10, from 7:00-7:45 AM and attendees will be able to sign up for 20-minute one-on-one sessions approximately five weeks before the Symposium. Attendees are welcome to participate in discussions with the faculty ranging from career advice to specific questions regarding ongoing or planned studies. Expert Office Hours offer a unique opportunity for junior faculty to develop new and hopefully long lasting relationships with senior members of the field and we hope that as many attendees as possible participate in this exciting new program.

In addition to serving as Chair of the 2015 Palliative Care in Oncology Symposium Steering Committee , Dr. Temel is the Director of Cancer Outcomes Research and Clinical Director of Thoracic Oncology at Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center. Her clinical and research interests include thoracic cancers, symptom management, and palliative care.

Disclaimer:

The ideas and opinions expressed on the ASCO Connection Blogs do not necessarily reflect those of ASCO. None of the information posted on ASCOconnection.org is intended as medical, legal, or business advice, or advice about reimbursement for health care services. The mention of any product, service, company, therapy or physician practice on ASCOconnection.org does not constitute an endorsement of any kind by ASCO. ASCO assumes no responsibility for any injury or damage to persons or property arising out of or related to any use of the material contained in, posted on, or linked to this site, or any errors or omissions.